Nigel Holmes, CEO of Hydrogen Scotland, said: “Scotland is uniquely positioned to become a leading exporter of green hydrogen thanks to its vast offshore and onshore wind potential. By working closely with AquaVentus, we are building a bridge across the North Sea – not just between two countries, but for a truly European hydrogen market. This partnership is a milestone on the way to decarbonising energy systems on both sides.”
Jörg Singer, Chairman of AquaVentus, added: “Germany, as Europe’s largest industrial hub, depends on reliable supplies of green hydrogen. Working with our partners in Scotland opens up tremendous opportunities: we are combining offshore wind, electrolysis and a joint pipeline infrastructure. In this way, we create security of supply, economic prospects and genuine added value for the energy transition across Europe.”
Offshore wind energy from the North Sea is expected to play a central role in delivering climate-neutral energy to neighboring countries. To maximize efficiency, integrated infrastructures such as electricity grids and hydrogen pipelines are seen as essential. AquaVentus and Hydrogen Scotland are therefore prioritizing the linkage of offshore wind power, electrolysis facilities, and a European hydrogen backbone.
The AquaVentus initiative has set the goal of producing one million tonnes of green hydrogen annually from North Sea wind resources and transporting it ashore via pipeline. More than 100 companies, research institutes, and organizations are part of the initiative, aiming to establish 10 gigawatts (GW) of offshore hydrogen production capacity and develop the required transport infrastructure across Europe.
Hydrogen Scotland, which has over 200 members spanning industry, academia, local authorities, and development agencies, continues to promote low-carbon and energy-efficient technologies. The organization supports the integration of hydrogen into Scotland’s energy system and works to position the country as a hub for green hydrogen exports.
In parallel with the MoU signing, AquaVentus published a position paper outlining the framework for German-British hydrogen cooperation. The paper emphasizes Scotland’s potential in hydrogen production, Germany’s import requirements, and the importance of transport infrastructure already being planned.
It identifies three main prerequisites: cross-border networking between producers and consumers, alignment of regulatory frameworks, and the progression from national core networks to a pan-European hydrogen backbone. The paper concluded: “Through joint hydrogen production and infrastructure projects, we can leverage the UK’s significant renewable resources and Germany’s strategic hydrogen storage and consumption capabilities, diversify energy imports for de-risking, and strengthen Europe’s energy security.”
